Bass Traditions

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. He created the sky and the seas, the sun and the moon. On the earth, He brought forth vegetation, seed-bearing plants and fruit trees. He made the waters teem with living creatures, and gave the sky to the birds of the air. God set upon the earth all natures of living creatures: cattle, sheep, and every kind of wild beast. He blessed all His creatures, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply." Then, God made man in His own image to rule over all creation. God looked at what He had made, and He saw that it was good...

God rested on the seventh day, but yearned to create once again. On the eighth day, summoning all of his power, God created that which is truly worthy of Him. He created the sousaphone, and He saw that it was awesome…

In the years that have passed since the time of creation, the most awesome disciples of the sousaphone have passed through northern Indiana and the University of Notre Dame. When they arrive here they are already at the pinnacle of their careers as tuba players. But, the mighty who pass this way do more than haul brass at high speeds.

Yes, our beloved university is dedicated to developing the whole person. Truly awesome tuba players know all the lyrics to all the fight songs. We know ALL the words to the famous Notre Dame Victory March (not just the trio). We know Hike Notre Dame and yes, there are words to On Down the Line and Irish Backs. We of course know our alma mater, Notre Dame Our Mother. We are also the keepers of the original lyrics to America the Beautiful.

lakjda Additional Bass traditions include keeping guard of Fr. Hesburgh and Fr. Joyce at "Basses at the Hessie", Bass Walk through LaFortune on game days, eating more than the whole rest of the band put together, and playing our favorite song in large cavernous spaces "The Bass Song".